This is Part Two in a three part series on setting up and running a successful photographer booth at festivals, fairs and trade shows. Click here for Part One (Booth Must-Haves for Trade Shows for Bridal and Portrait Photographers) and click here for Part Three (Tips for Getting Potential Clients to Reach Out After You’ve Packed Up).
Now that we’ve discussed all the booth must-haves for trade shows, let’s talk about actually drawing people to said booth.
Anyone who’s set up a booth knows that’s often easier said than done. With all those booths set up around you — including other photographers — how do you make yourself stand out? If you’re already researching ideas (and I assume you are if you’re here reading this), you’ve already taken a giant step in the right direction. Check out our suggestions below. If you have any additional suggestions to contribute, please do so in the comment section!
#1 Make Your Space Inviting
A little finesse can turn a boring booth into an inviting space. To stand out in a crowd, turn your booth into a cozy refuge that makes people want to hang out for longer. For example: luxe rugs, linen-covered tables, soft lighting, plants, candles and mood music all work. If it’s hot, bring a mini air conditioner or fan to keep people cool (or a space heater if it’s cold). Check out Pinterest for some great decorating ideas. Pictured above is Completely Captivating Photography’s beautifully designed booth at a 2012 bridal expo.
#2 Have a Sitting Area
People get tired. Especially when walking around for a long time. Give them a place to rest their feet by bringing some plush chairs, a bench or even oversize bean bag chairs (great for children). Place albums of your work nearby so they can see your photography skills while relaxing for a few minutes.
#3 Create Motion
While you don’t want to cause a scene, creating a little in-booth motion will definitely attract eyes. For example, project large photos of your work on a screen/wall for people to look or hang streamers/ribbons that sway in the breeze.
#4 Be Alert, Make Eye Contact
Sitting in the same spot all day long may get a little boring, but try to be as engaged as possible throughout the day. If you look alert, excited and ready for action, people will be more likely to approach your booth. It’s also important to make eye contact with those who walk by, which also helps draw people in. And don’t forget: a friendly smile goes a long way. Pictured above is a busy photographer booth, put together by Elly’s Photography.
# 5 Give Away Freebies
Freebies will lure in almost anyone, especially if the freebie is something worthwhile. Anything that you can put your logo or contact information on is even better. For example, a sturdy paper fan with your logo on is enticing on a hot day, as are re-labeled cool bottles of water. Another convenient freebie: a bag (with your logo) that allows people to store their other freebies/purchases inside. Other ideas: Re-wrapped candy bars, pens, magnets, paper drink coasters, hand sanitizer and logo-emblazoned cookies. I’ve also seen re-logo’d nail polish bottles, which are great for brides and high school girls.
#6 Have a Raffle/Contest
People love a good contest, which is why so many booths have them. Some ideas to consider: a roulette prize wheel, a DIY scratch off ticket, “guess the number of X in a jar” raffle, free session giveaway raffle, “pin the camera on the photographer” or “pin the veil on the bride” (Like pin the tail on the donkey. Give reward to those who are successful).